The maintenance of silky anteaters (Cyclopes didactyius) in zoos is very difficult; to date, the longevity record was held by an individual that survived two years and four months at Lincoln Park Zoo, Chicago. Between March 2005 and March 2010, the Huachipa Zoo in Peru received a total of six wild-born, seized individuals (2 males, 4 females). Two of them arrived pregnant and gave birth at the zoo (1 male, 1 female). Twenty-five diets were tested, and management protocols were standardized for different age classes. Weight changes, morphometric and behavioral data were recorded. On average, silky anteaters survived two years in captivity. The maximum longevity of five years and seven months was recorded in a female that is still alive at the time of writing. Careful control of all factors that may affect their life (diet, environment, management, health, among others) and a continuous assessment on the animals' physical conditions are considered key factors for the survival of silky anteaters in captive conditions. This article provides information that will help managing captive C. didactyius; however, each institution should adjust this information according to its needs and realities.